By implementing the “Media Literacy Skills” (MLS) project, we aimed to strengthen the media literacy competencies of both youth workers and young people aged 16–26, helping them become critical and responsible consumers of online information. Our main goals were to counter disinformation, raise awareness about fake news, and provide tools to identify and analyze media content. Through research in local communities, we wanted to better understand how youth interact with digital media and where their challenges lie. The training course for youth workers aimed to equip them with non-formal educational methods, which they would later use in local workshops. These workshops were designed to empower young people with practical skills to recognize and combat disinformation. Additionally, we aimed to enhance cooperation between partner organizations and create sustainable outputs like a brochure and a good practices booklet. Ultimately, our goal was to promote critical thinking, active citizenship, and a more informed youth population across Europe.
We applied for the “Media Literacy Skills” (MLS) project to address the growing problem of disinformation affecting young people aged 16–26, who are active internet users but often lack the skills to critically assess online content. In Germany, Spain, and Romania, studies show that many young people struggle to recognize fake news, and a significant portion rely on social media as their main source of information without the tools to verify its reliability. This project responds to the urgent need to strengthen media literacy and critical thinking skills among youth by training youth workers, conducting research, and organizing local workshops. We also identified a lack of non-formal tools for youth organizations to effectively tackle this issue. By fostering transnational cooperation, we aim to develop innovative methods and resources that empower youth to become informed, responsible media consumers. MLS contributes to building resilience against fake news and promotes active citizenship across Europe.